Blues’ relegation from the Championship to League One means a summer of change is on the way, as does Tony Mowbray’s confirmation that he will not be returning to the St Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park dugout.
Most plans previously put in place for transfers and progression will have been thrown out of the window the moment relegation was confirmed. It was a disorderly 2023/24 campaign, with six different coaches sensationally taking the helm throughout.
Better continuity is needed otherwise Blues don’t stand much of a chance of bouncing straight back up to the English second tier at the first time of asking. That continuity must first start with a new manager and a search is currently underway to sort that.
The retained list offered some clarity, at least. Neil Etheridge, Gary Gardner, Scott Hogan, Marc Roberts and Ivan Sunjic will all be departing the club upon the expiry of their contracts, whereas Emanuel Aiwu, Oliver Burke, Andre Dozzell, Cody Drameh and Jay Stansfield will return to their parent clubs.
Legendary striker Lukas Jutkiewicz and experienced goalkeeper John Ruddy have both been offered new contracts but it awaits to be seen if they will sign them. Not including those two, just 17 senior players remain ahead of what’s expected to be a busy transfer window. Here’s a full run-through of the current squad.

1. Dion Sanderson
Contracted until June 2027. | Getty Images

2. Josh Williams
Contracted until June 2026. | Getty Images

3. Lee Buchanan
Contracted until June 2028. | Getty Images

4. Ethan Laird
Contracted until June 2026. | Getty Images